The Government has granted permission to energy giant Cuadrilla for a second fracking well at Preston New Road - just two months after it quietly signed off the company's first well.

With ministers overruling local councils, who blocked the plans, and making the announcement during conference recess, Caroline has accused them of trampling over democracy.

Caroline said: "Claire Perry has deliberately signed off this second well during recess so that MPs - including many from her own party who are opposed to this move - can't hold her to account.

"The fiasco of allowing fracking at Preston New Road has been an exercise in trampling over democracy and the wishes of local people.

"The Government is paving the way for a whole new fossil fuel industry just when we should be dramatically reducing our reliance on dirty energy. If they continue down this road, they'll face a growing backlash in Parliament and across the country."

It was revealed earlier this week that "at least 20" Conservative MPs are opposed to the Government's approach.